Safe Driving Tips For Bad Weather Conditions in Texas

I thought I was a cautious driver in Michigan before moving to Texas, but I had no idea how the conditions could change so drastically in different parts of the country. There was a learning curve while I adjusted to what safe driving looked like in Texas.

When I moved, I was shocked at how the rain impacted the road conditions. I was later told there was a slick layer between the pavement and water due oil on the roads.

Accidents are unfortunately all too common. It’s dangerous to operate a motor vehicle under the best of circumstances, given the nature of human error. So, why not do everything you can to prepare your own journey to be as safe as possible? With the proper knowledge, you can know what to expect in the strange and varied Texas weather.

There are a few things that you can do to prepare for all kinds of weather conditions. Here are a few safe driving tips that will be beneficial, regardless of the type of weather you are driving in:

1. Ensure your tire pressure is within the guidelines listed for your vehicle.
2. Purchase a tire pump that to keep in your car.
3. Check your wipers for proper function.
4. Purchase a snow to keep in your vehicle, especially if you are anticipating a snow storm.
5. Recharge your air conditioning every spring. Texas heat can be deadly in the summer, and you don’t want to be caught in it.
6. Keep a first-aid kit in the car.

Safe Driving Tips For Rain

Make a Plan

Rain in Texas is very common – especially during the months of March through May - and it can be deadly. Plan ahead! If you know you have a long or necessary road trip coming up, be sure to keep an eye on the weather and try to maneuver around any storms that may be coming your way. Also be sure to give yourself enough time so you don’t feel rushed when you are driving.

Drive Slow

In Texas, there is an abundance of oil slicks on the road. When it rains on oily roads, you may find that it creates an unreasonably slippery surface for your vehicle. Be prepared to drive much slower than you’d think.

Pull Over As Needed

If you find yourself on a rainy highway with little-to-no visibility, it is best to pull over and wait out the storm. Fortunately, in Texas, the rain will likely pass within the next few hours. If you’re unable to find a safe place to pull over, put your hazards on and proceed as slowly as possible. This is especially important if the other cars around you are doing the same.

Safe Driving Tips For Snow

Texas doesn’t often see snow, but if 2020 has taught us anything, it’s that snow can happen! And it can happen for over a week at a time! You might not think it’s important to know how to drive in the snow if you live in Texas, but there are a few things that could make those unpredictable and rare occasions much easier if you are prepared.

Keep Your Vehicle Stocked for Emergencies

Similar to rainy weather conditions, the best advice for driving in the snow is to go slow! Don’t rush or drive too quickly, even if you feel like you’ve gotten a handle of the conditions.

A few additional tips from a Michigander who grew up driving in the snow:

1. If snow is expected, keep a container of sand or dirt in your car. If you get stuck, one of the easiest ways out is by applying the sand or dirt close to the tires to create traction.
2. Watch out for black ice! If you see a clear spot pavement, it might not mean you can gain traction by driving through it. If the conditions are cold enough, there’s a chance that the spot on the road is ice that was frozen over before the snow fell.
3. Keep your gas tank full and extra blankets or layers of clothing inside. It’s scary if you’re out during a storm and you get stuck. Oftentimes, it can take hours for a tow truck to arrive, and you don’t want to be stuck in freezing temperatures for that long.
4. Test your battery, check your tires, and prepare in any way you can before that rare Texas snow comes.
5. If you can, just stay home! Most Texans aren’t used to driving in the snow, which makes already scary conditions, even scarier.

Safe Driving Tips For the Texas Heat

You might not think that you need to consider safe-driving techniques in the heat, but you do! Did you know that hot roads can burst your tires? This is especially true if your tires are worn and old.

Maintain Your Vehicle Regularly

Living in such a warm climate means you need to prepare your vehicle for such extreme conditions. Be sure to get it maintained regularly. Many facilities will look at your tires, without charge, to determine if they’re safe for the roadways.

Personal Injury Attorney For Driving in Bad Weather Conditions

Driving in various weather climates can be intimidating, given how much it changes the conditions of the road. Keep yourself and everyone in your vehicle safe by planning ahead with these safe driving tips. Be sure to give yourself enough time to reach your destination. Pull over if you feel that the roads are too bad for you to get there safely. Watch the weather before you leave and try to plan around bad conditions.

If you were injured in an accident because of bad weather conditions, we invite you to contact us today. Did you know that bad weather doesn’t negate someone’s fault? You might have a case if someone else was negligent. Everyone is expected to take reasonable precautions in bad weather, so as not to cause a wreck. If you think you have a case, you can call 512-457-8991 for a free consultation today.